I just throw them into the washing machine, then I let them air-dry. I've even washed my Ecco suede shoes with no problems. I'm sure that there are those who might shudder at that prospect, but the shoes were already 5-6 years old when I washed them.

If they're caked with dirt or mud and are athletic shoes, hose them off outside and then throw them into your washing machine with a load of clothes. You can dry them in the dryer if you can stand the rumbling sound as they knock against the walls, or you can set them in the air and sunshine outside to dry. Takes longer outside.

If they're dress shoes you can't wash them. Use a clean dry cloth and rub the dirt from the shoes, then use polish on them.